By July 1841, over an acre of land had been developed to form a wrestling ring, with temporary raised covered seating.

[1] In 1888, the field was put up for sale, and in 1893 it was purchased by the newly formed Devon County Athletic Company Ltd, led by former mayor Robert Pople.

[2] The ground was used by users including:[1] In 1901, for the coronation of Edward VII, the ground hosted a sports day for the public, including egg and spoon race, sack race, and greasy pole, a military tournament the following day, and the Exeter Horse Show.

[12] Main competitions included the Spring Cup, Derby and St Leger and they had an 'Inside Sumner' hare system.

[15] The ground also continued to host the Exeter Chiefs rugby union team as the primary tenant.